Zimplats to commission first phase of 185MW solar plant

One of Zimbabwe’s largest mining concern, Zimplats, is poised to commission a 35MW solar power plant in the first quarter of the 2025 fiscal year, marking a significant advancement in the country’s energy sector.

This initiative represents the first phase of a broader plan to eventually boost Zimplats’ solar power generation capacity to 185MW.

The solar plant’s commissioning is crucial amid a growing demand for electricity in Zimbabwe, which now requires 1 800MW, far surpassing the national grid’s 1 300MW output.

The recent issues with Hwange Units 7 and 8, where a fault in Unit 8 in the past week limited production to less than 700MW, have only exacerbated the energy shortfall.

Zimplats’ solar project follows the success of Caledonia’s 12MW solar plant, which now meets about 30 percent of that mining company’s power needs.

The 35MW plant, currently 86 percent complete, is expected to significantly bolster energy availability for Zimplats’ operations.

“Elsewedy Electric T&D are rendering engineering procurement construction services for the Zimplats Solar Power Plant named the Zimplats Selous Metallurgical Complex Solar Plant.

JA Solar Holdings is the supplier of PV modules for the Zimplats Solar Power Plant.

“Elsewedy Electric T&D is to perform operations and maintenance for the Zimplats Solar Power Plant for a period of 2 years,” the company said.

Additionally, Zimplats is making progress in sustainable water management.

The use of recycled water dropped from 44 percent to 39 percent in FY2024 due to El Niño-induced drought conditions, prompting a 15 percent increase in water abstraction from dams and underground sources.

The company also continues to rehabilitate its operational areas, with 9,1 hectares of land restored and 1,2 hectares of tailings storage facilities re-vegetated during the period.

The upcoming commissioning of the solar plant underscores Zimplats’ commitment to sustainability and energy security.-ebsesweekl